Feedback: Readers respond to Starbucks' CEO's request not to bring guns to shops

Sep. 19, 2013

Starbucks is asking customers not to bring guns into their coffee shops or patios, even in “open carry” states. The retailer makes an exception for authorized law enforcement. Here’s what readers had to say in letters and on Freep.com.

Many people are applauding Starbucks decision to no longer allow citizens to carry guns in their stores. Other businesses are making the same decision. These businesses are well within their rights to not allow weapons in their stores, but it is a hollow jesture. People in Michigan who have “concealed pistol license” generally conceal their pistols.

The suggestion that CPL holders leave their weapons in their cars when they go into these establishments is a bad idea. A gun left in a car has a good chance of being stolen. That is whole lot more dangerous than letting a law abiding CPL holder keep his gun on their person while buying a cup of coffee.

Chuck Connor

Warren

I think Starbucks will be surprised at the number of people who will honor this request and keep their guns and their money out of their coffee shops.

Scott Pfromm

Via Freep.com

I can’t see any reason why guns belong in Starbucks, or the vast majority of places, for that matter. Another reason to get coffee this morning!

KT Lowe

Via Freep.com

I think Starbucks will be just fine with their customer base. But what a refreshing philosophy: He’s saying you can bring a gun into a Starbucks, but he respectfully asks that you don’t. I wish more businesses would treat customers like they were adults.

Rick Palmer

Via Freep.com

They need to take it a step further: Ban the guns. Other coffee houses have done it and those are the ones I will go to.

Catherine Malick Ploughman

Via Freep.com

I wonder who makes the determination what constitutes authorized law enforcement. I am assuming they mean on duty uniformed officers. And I would think this would include only if the store calls and requests police services. What about parole and probation officers on their way home from work? Off duty uniformed officers?